Mobile Lab Training Initiative Brings Skilled Trades and Wellness Industry Workshops to Students

Strategic Insights -

A travelling group of instructors with mobile trailers in tow is providing high school students with hands-on experience in skilled trades and wellness industries, tackling the region's shortage of skilled workers and opening up new career paths.

Key Takeaways:

  • The mobile lab training initiative, a partnership between St. Lawrence College, the Upper Canada District School Board, and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), has visited 11 schools across the region, reaching over 1,300 students.
  • The initiative offers hands-on workshops in carpentry, welding, electrical, culinary, fitness, nutrition, and wellness, as well as a virtual reality component.
  • Students receive a "micro-credential" certificate upon completing the workshops, a short, competency-based training opportunity focusing on in-demand workplace skills.
  • The program aims to break down barriers for students to access the trades and equipment, highlighting the importance of these industries and showcasing them as career paths for everyone.
  • By visiting schools and offering hands-on experiences, the initiative encourages students to explore new areas and try trades they may not have considered before.
  • The initiative is also exploring the importance of the wellness industry, providing students with workshops on wellness and nutrition.
  • Students participating in the initiative, such as Grade 9 student Austin Larose, are using the experience to inform their future career choices and gain a better understanding of the industry.

Statistics:

  • Over 1,300 students have participated in the initiative across 11 schools.
  • The program has been running for 11 weeks, ending June 17.
  • The initiative has been to 11 schools in the region.
  • Students have participated in workshops in carpentry, welding, electrical, culinary, fitness, nutrition, and wellness, as well as virtual reality components.
  • A total of 2 mobile trailers and instructors have been on hand.
  • The program has distributed over 1,000 micro-credential certificates.

Sources:

  • Upper Canada District School Board news release
  • St. Lawrence College, manager of skills training and economic development Jamie Puddicombe
  • Lauren Levac, UCDSB student success learning partner, and OYAP co-ordinator (West)
  • Upper Canada District School Board photo
  • Terry Gardiner, SFDCI principal